Gazette Article on Pedestrian Safety in Indian Spring

The Silver Spring Gazette ran an article by Agnes Jasinski this morning about the boy who was hit by a car last week and pedestrian safety in Indian Spring.  It's short but hits all the major points, and should help heighten awareness of this issue.

Comments

[tony hausner]

here is an email from Andrew Kleine, prezco moderator, and former ISCA president. Andrew and Jennifer Chambers also of prezco and isca developed a pedestrian safety plan for prezco's 11 civics.

The Washington Post had an article about the county's initiative and mentions prezco's efforts. See

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/05/AR2007120502606.html

From: prezco@yahoogroups.com [mailto:prezco@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Awkleine@aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, December 05, 2007 10:49 PM
To: prezco@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [prezco] County Executive's Pedestrian Safety Plan

Friends,

Today I joined County Executive Leggett and Councilmember Ervin at a press conference announcing a new, countywide pedestrian safety plan. Links to the plan and press release are below, along with my remarks.

I was sent an advance copy of the draft on Monday, on condition I keep it close hold (I got permission to share it with Jennifer Chambers, who unfortunately was not available to represent us at the press conference). I made the decision to give Prezco's endorsement because the plan is fully consistent with our pedestrian safety priority and will help get our own plan implemented. I hope you agree.

I was particularly gratified when Councilmember Ervin told me that Prezco's action plan was the impetus for this countywide plan. She said the same thing to a Washington Post reporter.

Prezco continues to make a real difference.

Andrew

Plan:

http://montgomerycountymd.gov/content/home/pdf/ped_init.pdf

Press Release:

http://montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=4114

My remarks:

- Prezco is an umbrella group of 11 civic associations in and around downtown Silver Spring, representing more than 7,000 households.

- Improving pedestrian safety is one of our top priorities. We think County Executive Leggett is correct in calling this plan a "landmark." It will make the entire county safer and more walkable.

- The plan is clearly comprehensive. It is also credible. I say that for two reasons. First, this past summer, Prezco presented Mr. Leggett with a pedestrian safety action plan for our neighborhoods. He promised to give it priority attention, and he has come through, demonstrating the kind of accountability and transparency that are hallmarks of good government. Second, the plan contains performance targets, specific projects, and budget commitments -- a rare and welcome trifecta.

- The urgency of this plan was brought home to me just a few days ago, when a twelve year old boy in my neighborhood was seriously injured by a car while walking on a stretch of Franklin Avenue with no sidewalk and poor lighting. Sadly, this kind of collision happens every day in our county. With this plan and complementary efforts by civic groups, schools, media, and the business community, we can change that.

- Prezco wants to thank County Executive Leggett and Councilmember Ervin, who is a true champion for pedestrian safety. We are ready to help you move this plan forward.

[Robert Horn]

Hello Indian Springs Neighbors

I have a softball team that meets for practices on Tuesdays in April at 6:30, 4/15, 4/22 and 4/29. The location is the field by the community center at Sligo Creek Parkway and Dennis Ave.

I know there is a lot of casual interest in playing, but I need players who vote with their feet. If you can show up in one of the next three Tuesdays, you will be considered to join the group. We change location in May-August and join another larger group.

The criteria is not really talent but love of the game. Age is from 8-88, men and women. Even younger kids can be involved too.

The core of the team now is the Forest Estates Neighborhood. I would like to get an active volunteer from South Four Corners Neighborhood to help me recruit on that side of Sligo Creek.

Pull out the glove, bring a picnic and we will see you on Tuesday.

Please call 240-676-2505 (cell), or email at robhorn @starpower.net if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Robert Horn